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Originally Posted by Britster  If it's possible, I'd definitely try to take her to that swimming facility I sent you a link to. I know it's not, like, right around the corner for you but it's probably not too far? 45 minutes maybe from Waldorf to Annapolis? Even if you could do once or twice a month... I think it would really help take the weight off fairly quickly and also be no pressure at all on her knees and joints. Canine Fitness Center - Have you swum your dog today? |
Also you can use the bathtub, just make sure to have a non slip mat down. She doesn't have to swim either, water walking is a very good exercise. Fill to just above her knees to begin with. Ten minute sessions to start with
If you live near a beach, walk her in the water along the shoreline.
If you walk outside try to walk her more on the grass, then the pavement.
Try also to walk her on gravel and or sand for a few minutes each day. This will strengthen all her toe muscles and ankles. Which is very good for her knees
Timing of Exercise: After eating, and just before bedtime
Food: No food after say 6pm - or her last exercise time.
Now some exercises and fun things you can do to strengthen the muscles of the legs and back.
a) Have her stand. Yup just stand still. It is in show terms called "stacking" your dog. Command is Stand/Stay. Reward her a lot in the beginning, say with cheerios or green beans, something she likes but is not so fattening.
Build up to three minutes. Position her legs as follows: front legs directly under her shoulders, back paws under her hips.
b) Working from the stand/stay position. Have her lift her paw and touch hands with you.. Well done Girl First one front paw then the other. Repeat three times with each paw
c) Now time for a STRETCH. With your gal on table height, on a non slip surface. Take right front leg in your hand, place your hand up high where the leg comes into her body, and Hold Gently but firmly. Take Left rear leg up high. Now stretch the right leg forward and the left leg back. Count to 15 seconds. Keep the legs relatively close to the ground..
Reward her after doing both sides. GOOD GIRL!
d) Dog bowing. See if she can hold position for 10 seconds, Reward and repeat to 3x.
e) Back up Back up. The dog walks backwards. Very strengthening for the rear legs and buttocks.
f) Sit/Beg/Stand. Wonderful for the Back and Leg muscles. Repeat three times.
To help with after exercise muscle soreness:
1) get a cold pack that you can velcro over the knees. Well actually you need two! Leave on for 5 minutes
2) Epsom salts soak. Fill tub to above her knees with lukewarm water. Add two cups of epsom salts. Let her stay in tub for 5 minutes or more.
3) Massage her wee legs. She will love it. This is wonderful done on Mommy's lap!
If you stick with this program, in two to three wks, you should start noticing some pawsitive differences!